In celebration of their 30 years of successful business practices, SPM Resorts’ executive leadership, Terry Collier, Michael Schraibman and Bill Young decided to create a way that would make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate. In 2008, they began to lay the groundwork to establish a charitable organization that would fill a need for families going through, or who had been through, a distressing medical experience with a child. Through the partnership with SPM Resorts and SPM Resorts’ affiliated properties, Sharing Precious Memories (SPM) Foundation was founded in January 2009 to enhance the lives of children and their families who had undergone a child’s medical crisis by providing an opportunity for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation through a vacation experience.
Since its establishment in January 2009, more than 15 social service organizations have provided referrals of families who could benefit from the Foundation’s program and service. To date, the Foundation has received more than 60 applications from families who are in desperate need of a break from the strenuous routine and financial difficulties surrounding the illness or injury of a child. Additionally, numerous local businesses have joined forced with SPM Foundation by providing in-kind donations which offers additional amenities to the families while vacationing.
For more information about Sharing Precious Memories Foundation visit our website at: www.sharingpreciousmemories.org.
November 2009 Archives
Autumn News from SPM Resorts
Judith Hosseini was promoted to the position of general manager for Laurel Point Resorts, in Gatlinburg, TN in August. Judith lives in nearby Sevierville, but was originally from Kentucky. She graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1988 with a B.A. in Economics. Judith has been at the resort for seven years and was assistant general manager, prior to her promotion. Her phone number is 865-436-3472, ext. 501 and her email is jhosseini@spmresorts.com.
Mildred Rosam celebrated a 20 year anniversary with Hollywood Beach Tower, having joined the team on September 26th, 1989. Mildred works in the Administrative Department and handles Owner Services/Accounts Receivable. Yva Saint Louis, general manager of the Floridian resort, noted that Mildred has contributed a great deal to the organization, interacting well with owners and fellow employees. Yva also mentioned that Mildred’s attendance record is exceptional. So, happy 20th anniversary to you, Mildred!
Linda MacDonald received a Certificate of Appreciation from the Yarmouth Fire Department, earlier this summer.
SPM Resorts’ “Resort of the Year,” Royal Dunes Resort, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was awarded Gold Crown status with RCI for 2010, according to General Manager Will Potter. Will’s phone number is (843) 681-9718, ext. 5172 and his email is wpotter@spmresorts.com.
Julie Phillips (phone 843-249-3591, jphillips@spmresorts.com), general manager of Peppertree By the Sea in North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, reports their team honored their Housekeeping staff with an appreciation luncheon to celebrate National Housekeepers week. The event was hosted by Julie, Assistant GM Andrew Graziano, Regional Director Mary Jo Rich and Board Vice President Donnie Looper. Lunch was prepared by Mrs. Karen McQueen, activities director. Each employee received a gift, plus a special "You are Appreciated" pin from PBS.
(Left to right: Linda Sakmar, Angela Willard, Marlene Johnson, Ann Freeland, Barbara Dyson.)
Joy Korros, general manager of Country Club Villas and Sandy Shores III, reported Country Club Villas was proud and excited to announce they purchased one of the duplexes directly across from present check-in facility. “The downstairs unit will become our new check-in facility,” says Joy, “complete with a new updated look. The move is scheduled to take place no later than October 30th. The upstairs portion of the duplex will be made into a rental unit complete with all new furnishings, walls and carpet. The existing check-in facility will be converted into an activity center which will include a lounge area with a flat screen TV, an exercise area and tables and chairs for owners to get together and mingle.”
“Country Club Villas is also beginning some exciting new unit upgrades,” she continues. “A model was completed this summer and four more units are expected to begin changes in November. The upgrade will include new furniture, a larger flat screen in the living room, new carpet and paint and new bedroom furniture where needed. We can’t wait for all the new changes to take place and looking forward to seeing you soon.”
Seawatch at Island Club proudly announces their two new maintenance team members Tom Toney and Rick Rucker, have completed their 90-day probationary period and have been made full time, according to Assistant General Manager Shelly Beeson.
Sharing Precious Memories Foundation
Cool Under Fire!
Linda MacDonald is the assistant general manager at The Ocean Club on Smugglers Beach, Cape Cod MA. Linda has been with the resort for 20 years as of September 1, 2009, and has been AGM since August of 2006. General Manager Steve Buckley tells it like this:
We had a fire at the resort early this year (caused by a special needs child). Linda's quick actions resulted in containing the fire to one room only. Linda was recognized by the town for preventing the spread of the fire that would have resulted in much more damage to our roof and adjoining rooms. Linda was also recognized for her professional manner in ensuring the safety of guests at the time of the fire.
Linda retrieved a fire extinguisher and contained the fire that was damaging the wall and ceiling of an owner's unit.
The resort was used as an example of the training and calmness of its team for other resorts in the area by the town of Yarmouth.
Linda is awesome.
